Common category in an essay rubric

Unacceptable, Poor, Satisfactory, Good, Excellent Unacceptable, Emerging, Minimally Acceptable, Acceptable, Accomplished, Exemplary Stevens, Dannelle D. and Antonia Levi (2005). Introduction to Rubrics : An Assessment Tool to Save Grading Time, Convey Effective Feedback, and Promote Student Learning.

Clarity (Thesis supported by relevant information and ideas.) The purpose of the student work is not well-defined. Central ideas are not focused to support the thesis. Thoughts appear disconnected. The central purpose of the student work is identified. Ideas are generally focused in a way that supports the thesis.

For example, you may choose a rubric with three or four levels for an essay assignment, while a one-level rubric (or credit/no credit) may be useful for smaller assignments and save you time when grading. You may also consider whether to list the highest possible level of achievement first or last.

Holistic Rubrics. A holistic rubric consists of a single scale with all criteria to be included in the evaluation being considered together (e.g., clarity, organization, and mechanics). With a holistic rubric the rater assigns a single score (usually on a 1 to 4 or 1 to 6 point scale) based on an overall judgment of the student work.